Rassie Erasmus has publicly backed Eddie Jones after the Japan coach went on record about the power dynamics shaping the Nations Championship schedule — specifically, Japan being forced to play their 'home' fixture against Ireland in New South Wales rather than Tokyo. Jones was blunt: Ireland wielded enough influence at World Rugby to avoid a punishing travel itinerary, and Japan had to absorb the consequences if they wanted a seat at the table. Fiji's situation is even starker — their entire Nations Championship schedule is being played in Britain.
Erasmus stopped short of endorsing Jones's specific grievances, but his public praise on X — noting Jones's "honesty and no fear mentality" — is a pointed signal. Two of rugby's most politically sharp coaches are aligned on the broader point: the Nations Championship's structure reflects existing power hierarchies more than any genuine commitment to global growth. For Springbok supporters watching how World Rugby's politics shape the game's direction, this piece is worth the read.